Up next: Transformation, via largest free trade port

There was a time when even a mere mention of Hainan, the island off China's southern coast, would evoke mental images of Hainan Airlines, giant tropical-themed hotel compounds, coconut milk and migrants from China's northeast region. Not any more.

The change has been sudden. In my mind, I can already visualize the island's planned free trade zone, which will be the world's largest, becoming a staggering symbol of China's new economic direction.

The country is welcoming businesses from all around the world to invest in Hainan and actively participate in development-related ventures, and in industries or sectors like information technology, agriculture, scientific research, innovation, tourism, marine economy, ecology, education and upgrade of human resources.